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Description
Chaenomeles Cathayensis, also known as Chinese Quince, is a flowering plant from the Rosaceae family. It is native to China and is commonly found in the provinces of Anhui, Fujian, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Shaanxi, Shandong, and Zhejiang. The plant can grow up to 3 meters tall and blooms in spring with pink or white flowers. Its fruit is edible but is usually sour and astringent, making it more suited for use in preserves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Chaenomeles |
Appearance
Chaenomeles Cathayensis has deciduous leaves that are dark green and glossy. Its flowers bloom in spring, usually in April, and are pink or white in color. The plant produces small, yellow-green fruit that are 5-6 cm in diameter and are covered in a fine fuzz. The fruit is edible but is usually too sour and astringent to be eaten raw. It is more commonly used in preserves.
Care Guide
Chaenomeles Cathayensis is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your Chinese Quince:
- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Water the plant deeply once a week.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer in the spring before new growth appears.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to bloom and produce fruit. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce its fruit production.
- Hardiness Zones: Chaenomeles Cathayensis is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chaenomeles Cathayensis is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to the following pests and diseases:
- Scale insects: These pests can infest the plant and cause a sticky substance to form on the leaves.
- Fire blight: This bacterial disease can cause the leaves and branches to turn black and die.
- Rust: This fungal disease can cause yellow spots to form on the leaves and can lead to defoliation.
Habitat
Chaenomeles Cathayensis is native to China and is commonly found in the provinces of Anhui, Fujian, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Shaanxi, Shandong, and Zhejiang. The plant prefers well-draining soils and full sun to bloom and produce fruit.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Chaenomeles Cathayensis frost tolerant?
A: Yes, the plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-9 and can tolerate frost.
Q: Can I eat the fruit of Chaenomeles Cathayensis?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible, but it is usually too sour and astringent to be eaten raw. It is more commonly used in preserves.
Q: How often should I water my Chinese Quince?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize my Chaenomeles Cathayensis?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer in the spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Chaenomeles japonica
- Chaenomeles speciosa
- Chaenomeles x superba
References
- “Chaenomeles Cathayensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.
- “Chinese Quince (Chaenomeles Cathayensis).” Gardenia. www.gardenia.net.
- “Chinese Quince (Chaenomeles Cathayensis).” Garden Guides. www.gardenguides.com.
